Heath blaze closes road at Killimster
FIREFIGHTERS in Caithness are still tackling heath fires which have occurred across the county since Sunday afternoon.
Police and fire services have closed the B876 Wick to Castletown Road at Killimster as emergency services deal with a large fire there, and police are asking drivers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
A total of 25 firefighters and four fire engines are currently involved in fighting the flames which are said to be heading directly towards a forest plantation.
The blaze was thought to have started at 7.15am this morning (Monday) and staff from Dunbeath, Helmsdale, Lybster and Golspie are currently at the scene where the flames are being fanned by strong winds.
This is the second major heath fire this weekend.
A total of 1.5 square kilometres of whins and heather were burnt at Canisbay. It took firefighters almost 16 hours to bring the blaze under control after it was discovered at 4.30pm on Sunday afternoon.
Due to the severity of the situation and the amount of smoke, which was affecting visibility, Northern Constabulary was forced to close a minor road between Keiss and Canisbay.
Thirty-five firefighters and six engines were at the scene – from Wick, Thurso, Lybster, and John O’Groats. The fire had largely been extinguished by 8am this morning with staff still dealing with a few hot spots.
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